Kitaichi Glass Otaru (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Kitaichi Glass Otaru?
A solo visitor can linger in galleries, take free studio tours, and join 30-min craft classes without coordinating with others; site is 30 min from Sapporo and fully open to individuals.
Positives:
- Free expert demos: Studio tours let you see live glass artistry at no extra cost.
- Flexible browsing: Three floors of glassware let you explore at your own pace.
Challenges:
- Language barrier: Workshop instructions may be in Japanese; ask for English support.
- Peak times: Weekends and afternoons get busy; early visits are calmer.
What is so special about Kitaichi Glass Otaru for solo trip?
- Free guided glassblowing and lampworking tours
- Hands-on workshops to craft your own glass pieces
- Three themed floors with tax-free shopping
- Cozy lamp-lit café for ice cream or coffee
- Early visits are quieter and more personal
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Time to join free studio tours, complete a workshop, and browse galleries at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Free glassblowing and lampworking tour:
Watch master artisans shape and lampwork glass up close.
Tip: Join a tour at 10:00 or 14:00 for smaller groups.
Lamp-bead arrangement workshop:
Design and assemble a colorful glass bead pendant or strap.
Tip: Reserve a spot early; workshop runs 20–30 minutes and starts at ¥1,000.
Sandblasting class:
Etch your custom design onto a glass tumbler.
Tip: Book before 4:30pm; cost ¥2,250 includes the glass piece.
Browse themed glass galleries:
Explore Japanese, Western, and Country glassware floors.
Tip: Look for tax-free items if your purchase exceeds ¥5,000.
Café break under lamps:
Enjoy soft-serve ice cream or coffee in Kitaichi Hall.
Tip: Try the milk-tea soft-serve for ¥450 under the chandelier glow.
Content Notice: Some content on this page may be written with the assistance of AI tools. We regularly update to ensure accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip train Sapporo–Otaru | JPY 1,280 |
| Lamp-bead workshop | JPY 1,000 |
| Sandblasting class | JPY 2,250 |
| Soft-serve ice cream | JPY 450 |
| Coffee | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 5,480 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Kitaichi Glass Otaru?
In winter, enjoy the warm lamp-lit café on cold mornings. In summer, visit early to avoid afternoon crowds.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Kitaichi Glass Otaru
- Arrive before 10am: Catch the first free tour and lamp-lighting ritual with fewer people.
- Call ahead: Reserve workshop slots on busy days to guarantee your spot.
- Combine with Otaru Canal: Add a stroll along the canal for a full-day Hokkaido experience.
Map of Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Address: 7-26 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Reviews of Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Jeanne Ivanova
We just stopped by for a morning coffee and found it very charming. The interior feels warm and cozy with the oil lamps—something you won’t really see in Europe. (They do give off a particular scent, but that’s perfectly normal.) We had to wait a little before getting in, and keep in mind there’s no table service. Still, it’s definitely worth a stop to have a look around.
Culture Geek Travels
Amazing glass store in Otaru. They have huge variety of handmade glass items. Be careful and read where is it made as some are made in Japan but I saw also selection of glass made in different European countries. So check if you search for items from particular country. There is many floors and the store is really huge. The products have different price ranges so for many budgets. Overall great st...
Cheeky Moron
Glass wares are quite expensive, but exquisite and pretty. Had a good time admiring the pieces and buying some.
C Kwok
Love the glass art made in Japan. The special colors and shapes, just so unique. Bought quite a few wine glass back home and they have packed them all safe and firm for us, as always.
Kai Yip Thong
Didn't visit the shop as its super long queue, however just enjoy the ice cream at the other end of the shop. If you have enough time should visit this to see their kerosene lamps and glass floats used for fishing nets. A well-known oil lamps shops in Otaru since 1901.
About Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 134-33-1993See available options
Promo on Trip.comExplore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
See available options
Promo on Trip.com